Frome stallholders - and their customers - were told late on January 17 that contrary to earlier speculation the Frome Mendip Market WILL continue.

However it will only be on the Wednesday.

In news just released by Mendip District Council the markets will carry on, but just with shorter hours and unfortunately there will be no Saturday market.

The full statement is:

"Mendip District Council fully recognises the importance of its outdoor markets, and the ability for communities to shop in these open-air environments.

All weekday markets will run as normal, but with slightly reduced hours 9am-12 noon. There will be no markets on Saturdays.

Wednesday: Wells Market 9am-12pm

Thursday: Street Market 9am-12pm

Saturday: No markets at Wells or Frome

"Since the 2020 lockdown, Mendip District Council has worked hard to ensure that all necessary measures are in place to support the delivery of Mendip Markets, and to support its traders as they continue to provide essential provisions, such as food, cleaning products and pet supplies, to the public.

"Your Council has ensured markets remain open, and COVID secure. To enable this, we have added additional measures in line with Government guidelines such as recommending the wearing face coverings, encouraging social distancing and the introduction of cash free payment options, in order that our much-loved markets continue to operate as safely as possible for both stall holders and our communities. "